What is the SSI Benefit Amount?

The SSI benefit amount is determined based on the federal benefit rate (FBR) set by the Social Security Administration (SSA). For 2025, the FBR for an individual is $914 per month, and for a couple, it is $1,371 per month. However, the actual amount you may receive could be higher or lower depending on your specific circumstances.

Factors That Affect Your SSI Payment

Several factors can affect how much you receive in SSI benefits. These include:

• Income: SSI is a need-based program, meaning the amount you receive will be reduced based on any income you have. This includes wages, pensions, and even some gifts. The SSA applies a formula to determine how much of your income counts toward reducing your SSI benefits.
• For example, the first $20 of most income doesn’t count, and after that, the SSA will subtract $1 for every $2 you earn.
• Living Situation: Where you live can also impact the amount you receive. If you live independently, you may receive the full SSI payment. However, if you live with someone else and share living expenses, your benefits may be reduced.
• State Supplementation: Some states offer additional payments, known as state supplements, to help boost your monthly SSI benefits. These payments vary by state, so the amount you receive may be higher if you live in one of these states.
• Other Resources: SSI also takes into account your financial resources. If you have savings, investments, or property, they may reduce your eligibility for SSI benefits. For example, if your resources exceed $2,000 for an individual or $3,000 for a couple, you may not qualify for SSI.

How Much Can You Expect to Receive?

While the federal SSI payment is set by the SSA, the actual amount will depend on your unique situation. Here are a few scenarios to give you an idea of what you might receive:

• Living Alone and No Income: If you have no income and live alone, you may qualify for the full federal SSI payment of $914 per month (as of 2025).
  
• Living with Others or Sharing Expenses: If you live with family or friends and share expenses, your monthly SSI payment may be reduced. The SSA may use a "deeming" process to calculate how much you contribute to the household, affecting the total benefit.
  
• Additional State Payments: If you live in a state that provides additional SSI payments, your benefits may be higher. For example, in California, eligible individuals may receive up to $1,200 per month with state supplementation.